When Pat Fenlon leads his Hibernian team out at the national stadium on Sunday
they will be attempting to create the biggest upset in a Scottish Cup final
since Dundee United beat Rangers in 1994.

The Edinburgh club can only prevail, however, if key individuals win their personal duels.

Kelvin Wilson v Leigh Griffiths

Wilson has been Mr Reliable for Celtic this season. The defender took a while to impress after Lennon signed him from Nottingham Forest three years ago but he’s been as consistent as a metronome during this campaign and is entitled to be disappointed about missing out on an England call-up.

Griffiths, Scotland’s Player of the Year, is the only member of Hibs’ squad who has experienced scoring a winning goal against the Hoops (he did it at Easter Road on Dec 29) and a brace at Hampden will see the striker become the first Hibs player to notch 30 goals in a season since Joe Harper 41 years ago.

Scott Brown v Jorge Claros

Few people expected club captain Brown to be available for this final as a result of a long-term abductor problem but the box-to-box midfielder returned from a three-month absence to inspire 4-0 victories over St Johnstone and Dundee United and his hunger should work against his former club.

Related Articles

Claros, more contemplative than combative, is seeking redemption in what will be his last appearance for Hibs after enduring the humiliation of being replaced before half-time in last year’s Hampden thrashing by Hearts.

Gary Hooper v Paul Hanlon

Many observers suggested that Hooper had downed tools when the January transfer slammed shut without the anticipated move south coming to pass. The striker had harvested 23 goals from his first 32 outings but has managed only six in his last 18 so he could do with a strong finish.

Hanlon, for his part, has matured to become (along with James McPake) the rock on which Fenlon has built the foundations for his side. Hooper has yet to find the net in their three meetings this season.